Hearst newspapers look to trim staffs

The Hearst Corp. joined other Connecticut newspaper owners seeking to reduce costs in this tough economy, telling the employees of its Fairfield County properties there will be jobs lost next year.

In a letter to employees sent Friday, publishers of the various Connecticut newspapers wrote, "The current economic downturn has exacerbated an already challenging year for our newspaper and our industry, forcing us to eliminate duplication of work across the

Hearst spokesman
Paul J. Luthringer
said the company was not disclosing any information beyond the letter to employees at this time, including how many positions Hearst is looking to trim or the total employment within the Connecticut group.

The company said it would seek voluntary buyouts, giving those who choose that route two weeks' severance for each year of employment -- up to a maximum of 52 weeks -- health and dental coverage under COBRA, payment for all accrued 2009 vacation time and a company-sponsored outplacement program.

"A job reduction program, if necessary, will follow the voluntary buyout offer and will be completed by April 1, 2009," the letter said.

Hearst's announcement didn't surprise
Rich Hanley
, a
Quinnipiac University
assistant professor in the journalism department and graduate program director, who said it's a rough time for the media in the state and across the nation.

Advertising revenues are down across the country and circulation is declining as newspapers cut content, he said. Newspapers are in trouble, he said, pointing to Tribune Co.'s bankruptcy filing and
Journal Register Co.
, which is in default on loans.